The memorial service for the late General Francis Ogolla at Ulinzi Sports Complex is a solemn military affair, closed off to the public.
Only his immediate family and a select group of guests invited have been allowed entry into the stadium.
The decision to keep the service private reflects the military's desire to pay tribute to Ogolla more personally and respectfully.
Considering Ogolla's prominent role as the CDF, the soldiers are said to have felt it appropriate to honor him with a distinguished and ceremonial farewell.
This befitting send-off is also in recognition of his service and leadership, officials say.
President William Ruto, his deputy Rigathi Gachagua and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi are among the dignitaries that will also attend.
The military has taken charge of all the preparations until he is laid to rest.
Today's ceremony will include military honors which have been organized in his honor as per the Defence Forces Standing Instructions No. 5 of 2020 which stipulates how it should be conducted and individuals to be accorded.
The soldiers have also planned a requiem mass at the same venue, five days after he is interred.
The service serves as a poignant moment to commemorate the life and legacy of a revered military leader who dedicated his life to serving the nation.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said a post-mortem examination was conducted Friday at the Mashujaa Funeral Home at the Defence Forces Memorial Hospital where his body has been lying.
Duale also stated that Ogolla will be accorded military honors complete with a military parade, and a 19-gun salute.
Ogolla is set to be laid to rest on April 21 at his Ng’iya home in Alego Usonga in Siaya County.
According to his family, it was his wishes that be buried within 72 hours of his death.
